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Are HPV and Genital Warts the Same Thing?

HPV and genital warts are not the same thing. However, genital warts may result from certain strains of HPV.

Genital Warts as a Symptom of HPV

Not everyone infected with HPV will have genital warts. In some cases, HPV causes no symptoms at all.

Both men and women can develop genital warts. The Infection may be diagnosed visually, though further testing may be suggested. Strains that cause genital warts do not cause cervical cancer.

Reducing the Risk of Developing Genital Warts

The number one means of preventing HPV-related genital warts is to get vaccinated. Vaccination against HPV can prevent infection, thus reducing your risk of developing genital warts, cervical cancer, and other health problems related to HPV.

Immunizations are available to males and females starting at ages 11 or 12. Vaccinations for adults are suggested for boys and men through age 21 and girls, women, and transgender individuals through age 26.

Treatment for Genital Warts

The treatments for genital warts include both topical and surgical options. Topical treatments include immune boosters to help the body fight off HPV and plant-based resin that works to kill genital wart tissue. Chemical treatments are also used to burn away the affected tissue.

In rare cases, genital warts may require surgical treatment. Surgical treatments are typically used to treat larger warts or in cases of pregnancy where the virus can be passed on to the newborn during delivery. Surgical treatments include freezing warts with liquid nitrogen. When healing, the now dead wart tissue sloughs away as new skin grows.

Other surgical options for genital wart treatment include electrocautery, laser treatments, and surgical excision.

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